Top New Zealand Chardonnay 2012

This opens with a distinct note of boiled peanuts on the nose, joined by layers of floral, honeycomb and heirloom apple fruit aromas. In the mouth this shows super fine balance, with light honey and toasted almond accents framing the core of clear orchard fruit. Very transparent feeling with fine depth to the zesty mineral and fruit flavors. Bright acid on the back end drives the lovely, vibrant finish, showing a little spice and lingering lemon verbena aromas. 92pts